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Music, B.A.

School of Humanities, Religion and Social Sciences

Explore Music, B.A.

What is possible when you tune into your future?
Harmony.

Music is—and always has been—a major cultural influence throughout the world. Music can speak to current trends and styles, or it can retell history.

As a music major at Fresno Pacific University, you’ll not only learn to speak in notes, you’ll dive into the history behind music. Here, you’ll gain a lifelong appreciation for and participate in a rich variety of musical forms of expression. While studying music history, theory, technique and application, you’ll be equipped to become the musician you want to be.

With an emphasis on performance and a combination of theory with practical participation in a variety of musical activities, you’ll evolve from student to performer

Program Highlights

  • Focus on participation and performance
  • Small class sizes allow for one-on-one mentoring
  • Choose from three areas of emphasis: music performance/composition, church music or music education
  • Courses include conducting and vocal pedagogy
  • Internship opportunities provide practical experience and allow for hands-on learning and observation
  • The performance/composition emphasis teaches lyric diction, music arrangement and scoring, conducting, voice and piano pedagogy
  • Additional courses focus on electronic music, conducting, vocal pedagogy and music education
  • Engage in comprehensive study of skills in band and orchestral instruments: brass, strings, woodwinds and percussion.

Emphases*

Music and Worship Ministry

Music and Worship Ministry provides you with training for leadership in church music programs. Though often similar in composition to many traditional and modern styles of music, church music incorporates unique elements and therefore requires specialized talents you’ll develop in this program.

Music Education

Music Education is for students who are interested in applying for admission to the Teacher Education Program. Note: Student should consult with their academic advisors and/or contact the Regional Enrollment Office prior to (two or more semesters before) completion of their degrees.

Performance/Composition

Performance/Composition offers you core music principles, and training to develop a unique style based on these principles.

* The Music, B.A. requires that students choose an emphasis.

Emphases Catalog*

Music and Worship Ministry

Program Director: Jeff Wilson, DMA

Overview

The music major prepares students for professional careers and/or graduate study in the discipline of music. The major combines music theory and history with practical participation in a variety of musical activiites, including performance ensembles and private music study. Students graduating with the music major can find employment in public school teaching, private studio instruction, performance, church ministries, the recording industry and many other music business enterprises. Some professions require additional music training and student are encouraged to continue studies at the graduate level or in specialized schools.

Music majors choose from three areas of emphasis: 1) music performance and/or composition, 2) music and worship ministry and 3) music education. 

Program Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Students will actively engage in music making, demonstrating basic proficiency on the piano and advanced skills on his/her primary instrument in both solo and ensemble settings.
  2. Students will engage in music scholarship by exhibiting in-depth knowledge of music history and producing high quality artifacts of scholarly writing backed up by competent research.
  3. Students will demonstrate mastery  and thorough understanding of the elements of music as presented in both written and aural formats.
  4. Students will outline the Biblical principles, historical trends, contemporary practices, and a personal philosophy of music’s role in Christian worship.
  5. Students will notate music at a level suitable for publication using Finale or equivalent music notation software and prepare scores in MIDI files acceptable for public presentation (music composition majors only).

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno

4 Year

Bachelor of Arts Music - Music Worship Ministry   

Transfer (ADT)

Bachelor of Arts Music - Music Worship Ministry (ADT) 

Lower Division Major Prerequisites (6 Units)

  • MUS 101 - Elements of Musicianship Credits 3 (Prerequisite for MUS 110L - Music Theory and Aural Skills Lab . Requirement may be waived by passing the theory placement exam.)
  • MUS 103 - Introduction to American Popular Music Credits 3 or
  • ART 110 - Art Appreciation Credits 3
Note:

Students who demonstrate sufficient background (by exam) may waive MUS 101 - Elements of Musicianship  and proceed directly to MUS 110 - Music Theory and Aural Skills  and  MUS 110L - Music Theory and Aural Skills Lab . For students who require foundation studies in preparation for the theory course sequence, music faculty recommends MUS 131 - Piano Class  or MUS 135 - Private Instruction in Piano , followed by MUS 101 - Elements of Musicianship . 

Required Courses (31-33 Units)

  • MUS 110 - Music Theory and Aural Skills Credits 3
  • MUS 110L - Music Theory and Aural Skills Lab Credits 1
  • MUS 210 - Music Theory and Counterpoint Credits 3
  • MUS 210L - Music Theory and Counterpoint Credits 1
  • MUS 310 - Music Theory and Analysis Credits 3
  • MUS 310L - Music Theory and Analysis Lab Credits 1
  • MUS 410 - Music Theory Since Debussy Credits 3
  • MUS 410L - Music Theory Since Debussy Lab Credits 1
  • MUS 349 - Music Research Credits 1
  • MUS 350 - Early Music History Credits 3
  • MUS 351 - Music History: 1725-1900 Credits 3
  • MUS 352 - Music History and World Music Since 1900 Credits 4
  • MUS 400 - Music in the Church Credits 3
  • MUS 495 - Senior Project Credits 1 - 3 or
  • MUS 497 - Senior Project in Music Composition Credits 1 - 3
Note:

Successful completion of Level 1 on the student’s primary instrument is a prerequisite for MUS 310 - Music Theory and Analysis .

Music history courses should be preceded by MUS 349 - Music Research , MUS - 110 Music Theory and Aural Skills , and  MUS 110L - Music Theory and Aural Skills Lab . 

Applied Music (Private Instruction) (8 Units)

Enrollment in private music instruction in the student’s primary instrument is required each semester of attendance, totaling at least 8 units (including at least 4 upper- division units) on the same instrument.

Ensemble (16 units minimum)

Participation in a performance ensemble is required each semester of attendance. This requirement includes all music students regardless of primary instrument. All ensemble participation units may be taken in any of these ensembles:

  • MUS 115 - Vocal Performance Workshop Credits 2
  • MUS 116 - Concert Choir Credits 2
  • MUS 123 - Symphonic Band Credits 2
Up to 50 percent of all required ensemble units may be taken in any of these ensembles:
  • MUS 114 - Crosswind Credits 2
  • MUS 117 - San Joaquin Chorale Credits 2
  • MUS 118 - Vocal Ensemble Credits 2 (women’s chorale, men’s chorus or other approved vocal ensemble)
  • MUS 120 - Brass Choir Credits 2 (pacific brass, or other approved instrumental ensemble)
  • MUS 121 - Jazz Band Credits 2
  • MUS 127 - Woodwind Ensembles Credits 2 (chamber wind, sax quartet, or other approved chamber ensemble)
  • MUS 208 - Pacific Bronze Handbell Choir Credits 2
  • MUS 216 - Pacific Chamber Singers Credits 2

Additional Requirements

  • All music majors must pass a piano proficiency exam. Enrollment in Piano Proficiency Class (MUS 132 ) or Private Piano Instruction (MUS 135 ) is required until the exam is passed. Transfer students who have passed the piano proficiency test at another institution are required to pass the FPU piano proficiency exam as well.
  • Level Exams: Passing the Level 1 and Level 2 exams on the primary instrument is required for music majors. Passing the Level 1 exam is a prerequisite for admittance to Music Theory and Analysis (MUS 310 ). The Level 2 exam must be passed at least one semester prior to the senior recital ( MUS 495 - Senior Project , MUS 497 - Senior Project in Music Composition ).
  • During the final year of study, graduating music majors are required to present a senior performance recital. Students will register for MUS 495 - Senior Project  or MUS 497 - Senior Project in Music Composition  during the semester of the scheduled recital.
  • A portfolio chronicling the student’s activities in music is due the semester of graduation as part of MUS 495 or MUS 497. The portfolio is especially important for music education majors.
  • Voice performance majors are required to participate in four semesters of MUS 115 - Vocal Performance Workshop . Two semesters are required for music education majors whose primary instrument is voice.
  • Music and Worship Ministry majors are encouraged to take one academic year of participation in handbell choir (MUS 208  ), Crosswind (MUS 114  ), and/or one semester of private organ instruction (MUS 137  ) during their years of college study.
  • Keyboard majors may be asked to accompany voice or instrumental students for rehearsals and student recitals.

Required Courses for Emphasis (27-29 units)

  • MUS 265 - Masterclass Credits 1 (4 credits required) *
  • MUS 411 - Scoring and Arranging Credits 3
  • MUS 450 - Conducting I Credits 3
  • MUS 460 - Vocal Pedagogy Credits 2
  • MUS 493 - Church Music Internship Credits 1 - 3
  • THEO 400 - Theology and the Arts Credits 3
  • MIN 378 - Worship Ministries Concepts Credits 2
  • MIN 379 - Spiritual Formation Credits 2

  • *If students choose to continue taking Masterclass after the 4 required credits, they must take it as MUS-465 for upper division elective credits

Electives

Choose 6 units from the following:

  • MUS 133 - Beginning Worship Guitar Credits 2
  • MUS 230 - Lyric Diction I Credits 2
  • MUS 231 - Lyric Diction II Credits 2
  • MUS 286 - Topics in Music Credits 1
  • MUS 451 - Conducting II Credits 3
  • THTR 330 - Dance Styles Credits 3
  • THTR 335 - Drama Ministry Credits 3
  • THTR 360 - Directing and Staging Texts Credits 3
  • THTR 365 - Stage Technology Credits 3
  • BIB 442 - Biblical Interpretation: 19th-21st Centuries Credits 3
  • BLIT 321 - Biblical Literature: Psalms Credits 3
  • COM 400 - Intercultural Communication Credits 3
  • COM 420 - Conflict Management and Resolution Credits 3
  • MIN 360 - The Church in an Urban World Credits 2
  • MIN 356 - Church and the Mission of God Credits 2
  • ART 370 - Life by Design Credits 3
  • ART 375 - Creative Leadership Credits 3
  • ART 475 - Career Development Credits 3
Music Education

Overview

The music major prepares students for professional careers and/or graduate study in the discipline of music. The major combines music theory and history with practical participation in a variety of musical activities, including performance ensembles and private music study. Students graduating with the music major can find employment in public school teaching, private studio instruction, performance, church ministries, the recording industry and many other music business enterprises. Some professions require additional music training and students are encouraged to continue studies at the graduate level or in specialized schools.

Music majors choose from three areas of emphasis: 1) music performance and/or composition, 2) music and worship ministry and 3) music education. Students are officially admitted into the music major once the Level 1 Exam has been passed in their freshmen year.

Projected Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Students will actively engage in music making, demonstrating basic proficiency on the piano and advanced skills on his/her primary instrument in both solo and ensemble settings.
  2. Students will engage in music scholarship by exhibiting in-depth knowledge of music history and producing high quality artifacts of scholarly writing backed up by competent research.
  3. Students will demonstrate mastery and thorough understanding of the elements of music as presented in both written and aural formats.
  4. Students will outline the Biblical Principles, historical trends, contemporary practices, and a personal philosophy of music's role in Christian worship.
  5. Students will notate music at a level suitable for publication using Finale or equivalent music notation software and prepare scores in MIDI files acceptable for public presentation (music composition majors only).

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno

4 Year

Bachelor of Arts Music - Music Education Emphasis  

Prerequisites (6 Units)

  • MUS 101 - Elements of Musicianship Credits 3

  • (Prerequisite for MUS 110L - Music Theory and Aural Skills Lab . Requirement may be waived by passing the theory placement exam.)

  • MUS 103 - Introduction to American Popular Music Credits 3
  • ART 110 - Art Appreciation Credits 3

  • NOTE: 

    Students who demonstrate sufficient background (by exam) may waive MUS 101 - Elements of Musicianship   and proceed directly to MUS 110 - Music Theory and Aural Skills  and MUS 110L - Music Theory and Aural Skills Lab . For students who require foundation studies in preparation for the theory course sequence, music faculty recommends MUS 131 - Piano Class  or MUS 135 - Private Instruction in Piano , followed by MUS 101 - Elements of Musicianship .

Required Courses (31-33 Units)

  • MUS 110 - Music Theory and Aural Skills Credits 3
  • MUS 110L - Music Theory and Aural Skills Lab Credits 1
  • MUS 210 - Music Theory and Counterpoint Credits 3
  • MUS 210L - Music Theory and Counterpoint Credits 1
  • MUS 310 - Music Theory and Analysis Credits 3
  • MUS 310L - Music Theory and Analysis Lab Credits 1
  • MUS 340 - Brass Techniques Credits 2
  • MUS 341 - String Techniques Credits 2
  • MUS 342 - Woodwind Techniques Credits 2
  • MUS 343 - Percussion Techniques Credits 2
  • MUS 349 - Music Research Credits 1
  • MUS 350 - Early Music History Credits 3
  • MUS 351 - Music History: 1725-1900 Credits 3
  • MUS 352 - Music History and World Music Since 1900 Credits 4
  • MUS 400 - Music in the Church Credits 3
  • MUS 410 - Music Theory Since Debussy Credits 3
  • MUS 410L - Music Theory Since Debussy Lab Credits 1
  • MUS 411 - Scoring and Arranging Credits 3
  • MUS 412 - Studies in Music Education Credits 3
  • MUS 450 - Conducting I Credits 3
  • MUS 451 - Conducting II Credits 3
  • MUS 460 - Vocal Pedagogy Credits 2
  • MUS 495 - Senior Project Credits 1 - 3
  • MUS 497 - Senior Project in Music Composition Credits 1 - 3

  • NOTE: 

    Successful completion of Level 1 on the student's primary instrument is a prerequisite for MUS 310 - Music Theory and Analysis .

    Music history courses should be preceded by MUS 110L - Music Theory and Aural Skills Lab  and MUS 110 - Music Theory and Aural Skills  and MUS 349 - Music Research   

Applied Music (Private Instruction) (8 Units)

Enrollment in private music instruction in the student's primary instrument is required each semester of attendance, totaling at least 8 units (including at least 4 upperdivision units) on the same instrument.

Ensemble (16 units minimum)

Participation in a performance ensemble is required each semester of attendance. This requirement includes all music students regardless of primary instrument. All ensemble participation units may be taken in any of these ensembles:

  • MUS 115 - Vocal Performance Workshop Credits 2
  • MUS 116 - Concert Choir Credits 2
  • MUS 123 - Symphonic Band Credits 2

  • Up to 50 percent of all required ensemble units may be taken in any of these ensembles:

  • MUS 114 - Crosswind Credits 2
  • MUS 117 - San Joaquin Chorale Credits 2
  • MUS 118 - Vocal Ensemble Credits 2 (Women's Chorale, Men's Chorus or other approved vocal ensemble)
  • MUS 120 - Brass Choir Credits 2 (Brass Choir, or other approved instrumental ensemble)
  • MUS 121 - Jazz Band Credits 2
  • MUS 127 - Woodwind Ensembles Credits 2 (Flute Choir, Sax Quartet, Woodwind Quintet)
  • MUS 208 - Pacific Bronze Handbell Choir Credits 2

Additional Requirements

All music majors must pass a piano proficiency exam. Enrollment in Piano Proficiency Class (MUS 132) or Private Piano Instruction (MUS 135) is required until the exam is passed. Transfer students who have passed the piano proficiency test at another institution are required to pass the FPU piano proficiency exam as well.

  • Level Exams: Passing the Level 1 exam signals official admittance into the music department as a music major and is a prerequisite for admittance to Music Theory and Analysis (MUS 310). The Level 2 exam must be passed at least one semester prior to the senior recital (MUS 495 - Senior Project, MUS 497 - Senior Project in Music Composition).
  • During the final year of study, graduating music majors are required to present a senior performance recital. Students will register for MUS 495 - Senior Project or MUS 497 - Senior Project in Music Composition during the semester of the scheduled recital. A portfolio chronicling the student's activities in music is due the semester of graduation. The portfolio is especially important for music education majors.
  • It is recommended that music majors take 4 units of MUS 265 -Masterclass.

 

NOTE: Two semesters of MUS 115 - Vocal Performance Workshop is required for music education students whose primary instrument is voice.

Teacher Education Program Information

Students who are interested in applying for admission to the Teacher Education Program should consult with their academic advisors and/or contact the Regional Enrollment Office prior to (2 or more semesters before) completion of their degrees.

Admissions Requirements:

Applicants to the Teacher Education Program are required to complete the following in order to be considered for admission.

  • Online application
  • Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher A written request to waive the GPA requirement can be submitted for Program Director consideration
  • Three letters of reference
  • Personal statement documenting experience working with youth 
  • Verifications of negative TB test and Certificate of Clearance

Testing Requirements:

Students are strongly encouraged to complete the required tests prior to admission to the credential program. Students must meet established testing requirements to progress into the student teaching or internship phase of the Teacher Education Program.

  • Passing results on CBEST
  • Passing results on CSET for area of credential

Required Co-Requisite Courses:

Students are strongly encouraged to complete the required co-requisite courses as part of their undergraduate programs. If not completed prior to admission to the Teacher Education Program, the equivalent graduate-level courses can be added to a student's academic plan for the credential program.

  • LANG 340 - Introduction to Linguistics Credits 3
  • PSY 355 - Adolescent Development Credits 3
  • PS 120 - American Politics and Society Credits 3 or
  • HIST 150 - American Civilization Credits 4
Performance/Composition

Overview

The music major prepares students for professional careers and/or graduate study in the discipline of music. The major combines music theory and history with practical participation in a variety of musical activities, including performance ensembles and private music study. Students graduating with the music major can find employment in public school teaching, private studio instruction, performance, church ministries, the recording industry and many other music business enterprises. Some professions require additional music training and students are encouraged to continue studies at the graduate level or in specialized schools.

Music majors choose from three areas of emphasis: 1) music performance and/or composition, 2) music and worship ministry and 3) music education. Students are officially admitted into the music major once the Level 1 Exam has been passed in their freshmen year.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Students will actively engage in music making, demonstrating basic proficiency on the piano and advanced skills on his/her primary instrument in both solo and ensemble settings.
  2. Students will engage in music scholarship by exhibiting in-depth knowledge of music history and producing high quality artifacts of scholarly writing backed up by competent research.
  3. Students will demonstrate mastery and thorough understanding of the elements of music as presented in both written and aural formats.
  4. Students will outline the Biblical Principles, historical trends, contemporary practices, and a personal philosophy of music’s role in Christian worship.
  5. Students will notate music at a level suitable for publication using Finale or equivalent music notation software and prepare scores in MIDI files acceptable for public presentation (music composition majors only).

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno

4 Year

Bachelor of Arts Music - Performance and Composition  

Transfer (ADT)

Bachelor of Arts Music - Performance and Composition (ADT)  

Prerequisites (6 Units)

  • MUS 101 - Elements of Musicianship Credits 3

  • Prerequisite for MUS 110L - Music Theory and Aural Skills Lab . Requirement may be waived by passing the theory placement exam.     

  • MUS 103 - Introduction to American Popular Music Credits 3
  • ART 110 - Art Appreciation Credits 3

  • NOTE: 

    Students who demonstrate sufficient background (by exam) may waive MUS 101 - Elements of Musicianship  and proceed directly to MUS 110 - Music Theory and Aural Skills  and MUS 110L - Music Theory and Aural Skills Lab . For students who recommends MUS 131 - Piano Class  or MUS 135 - Private Instruction in Piano , followed by MUS 101 - Elements of Musicianship .

Required Courses (31-33 Units)

  • MUS 110 - Music Theory and Aural Skills Credits 3
  • MUS 110L - Music Theory and Aural Skills Lab Credits 1
  • MUS 210 - Music Theory and Counterpoint Credits 3
  • MUS 210L - Music Theory and Counterpoint Credits 1
  • MUS 310 - Music Theory and Analysis Credits 3
  • MUS 310L - Music Theory and Analysis Lab Credits 1
  • MUS 410 - Music Theory Since Debussy Credits 3
  • MUS 410L - Music Theory Since Debussy Lab Credits 1
  • MUS 349 - Music Research Credits 1
  • MUS 350 - Early Music History Credits 3
  • MUS 351 - Music History: 1725-1900 Credits 3
  • MUS 352 - Music History and World Music Since 1900 Credits 4
  • MUS 400 - Music in the Church Credits 3
  • MUS 495 - Senior Project Credits 1 - 3
  • MUS 497 - Senior Project in Music Composition Credits 1 - 3

  • Select two of the following in consultation with the program director (must total at least 6 credits):

  • MUS 230 - Lyric Diction I Credits 2
  • MUS 231 - Lyric Diction II Credits 2
  • MUS 411 - Scoring and Arranging Credits 3
  • MUS 450 - Conducting I Credits 3
  • MUS 451 - Conducting II Credits 3
  • MUS 460 - Vocal Pedagogy Credits 2
  • MUS 461 - Piano Pedagogy Credits 2

  • NOTE:

    Successful completion of Level 1 on the student’s primary instrument is a prerequisite for MUS 310 - Music Theory and Analysis  

    Music history courses should be preceded by MUS 349 - Music Research , MUS 110 - Music Theory and Aural Skills  and MUS 110L - Music Theory and Aural Skills Lab    

Applied Music (Private Instruction) (8 Units)

Enrollment in private music instruction in the student’s primary instrument is required each semester of attendance, totaling at least 8 units (including at least 4 upper-division units) on the same instrument.

Ensemble (16 units minimum)

Participation in a performance ensemble is required each semester of attendance. This requirement includes all music students regardless of primary instrument. All ensemble participation units may be taken in any of these ensembles:

  • MUS 115 - Vocal Performance Workshop Credits 2
  • MUS 116 - Concert Choir Credits 2
  • MUS 123 - Symphonic Band Credits 2

  • Up to 50 percent of all required ensemble units may be taken in any of these ensembles:

  • MUS 114 - Crosswind Credits 2
  • MUS 117 - San Joaquin Chorale Credits 2
  • MUS 118 - Vocal Ensemble Credits 2 (Women’s Chorale, Men’s Chorus or other approved vocal ensemble)
  • MUS 120 - Brass Choir Credits 2 (Brass choir, or other approved instrumental ensemble)
  • MUS 121 - Jazz Band Credits 2
  • MUS 127 - Woodwind Ensembles Credits 2

  • (Flute Choir, Sax Quartet, Woodwind Quintet)

  • MUS 208 - Pacific Bronze Handbell Choir Credits 2

Additional Requirements

All music majors must pass a piano proficiency exam. Enrollment in Piano Proficiency Class (MUS 132) or Private Piano Instruction (MUS 135) is required until the exam is passed. Transfer students who have passed the piano proficiency test at another institution are required to pass the FPU piano proficiency exam as well.

  • Level Exams: Passing the Level 1 exam signals official admittance into the music department major and is a prerequisite for admittance to Music Theory and Analysis (MUS 310). The Level 2 exam must be passed at least one semester prior to the senior recital (MUS 495 - Senior Project , MUS 497 - Senior Project in Music Composition ).
  • During the final year of study, graduating music majors are required to present a senior performance recital. Students will register for MUS 495 - Senior Project  or MUS 497 - Senior Project in Music Composition  during the semester of the scheduled recital. A portfolio chronicling the student’s activities in music is due the semester of graduation. The portfolio is especially important for music education majors.
  • Voice performance majors are required to participate in four semesters of MUS 115 - Vocal Performance Workshop.
  • Keyboard majors and church music majors are encouraged to take one semester of organ instruction during their years of college study. Keyboard majors may be asked to accompany voice or instrumental students for rehearsals and student recitals.
  • It is recommended that music majors take 4 units of MUS 265 -Masterclass.

 

NOTE: Composition emphasis students must pass the Level 2 performance jury exam in composition, as well as the Level 1 exam on their primary instrument.

* The Music, B.A. requires that students choose an emphasis.

Possibilities Await
With an FPU Education

Whether you're a high school student, transfer student or parent, you'll find all the resources you need including application steps, tuition & financial aid, transfer and orientation information.

First Steps to Admission

  • Submit an application for admission (online or printable mail-in)
    * Admission applications are free, no discount codes required.
  • Send official copies of your transcripts to FPU.
  • Complete the FAFSA. It can be completed starting October 1st. (FAFSA Code: 001253)
Recommended High School Courses for Admission
  • 4 years of college preparatory English
  • 3 years of college preparatory mathematics
  • 2 years of social studies
  • 1 year of laboratory science
  • 1 year of performing art
  • 3 years of the same foreign language with a C- or better
Things to Keep in Mind

Fresno Pacific University’s accepted students have average GPAs of 3.2-3.6. Please speak with an admission counselor to discuss your eligibility.

All application materials should be submitted online or mailed to:

Office of Undergraduate Admission
Fresno Pacific University
1717 S. Chestnut Ave. #2005
Fresno, CA 93702
ugadmis@fresno.edu

Emphasis Requirements*

Music Education

Teacher Education Program Information

Students who are interested in applying for admission to the Teacher Education Program should consult with their academic advisors and/or contact the Regional Enrollment Office prior to (2 or more semesters before) completion of their degrees.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants to the Teacher Education Program are required to complete the following in order to be considered for admission.

  • Online application
  • Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • A written request to waive the GPA requirement can be submitted for Program Director consideration.
  • Three letters of reference
  • Personal statement documenting experience working with youth LA 385 - Critical Approaches to Teaching is recommended to students, as it provides school-based experiences with youth that meet this requirement.
  • Verifications of negative TB test and Certificate of Clearance.
Testing Requirements

Students are strongly encouraged to complete the required tests prior to admission to the credential program. Students must meet established testing requirements to progress into the student teaching or internship phase of the Teacher Education Program.

  • Passing results on CBEST
  • Passing results on CSET for area of credential
Required Co-Requisite Courses

Students are strongly encouraged to complete the required co-requisite courses as part of their undergraduate programs. If not completed prior to admission to the Teacher Education Program, the equivalent graduate-level courses can be added to a student’s academic plan for the credential program.

Code Title Units
LANG 340 Introduction to Linguistics 3
PSY 355 Adolescent Development 3
PS 120
HIST 150		 American Politics and Society
or American Civilization		 3
or 4
* The Music, B.A. requires that students choose an emphasis.

Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) Information*

Performance/Composition

Music (AA-T) to Music: Performance/Composition, B.A.

BA courses fulfilled through ADT:

  • All lower-division General Education requirements fulfilled
  • BA co-requisites and major courses fulfilled through ADT:
    • MUS 110/110L - Music Theory and Aural Skills/Lab (3/1)
    • MUS 210/210L - Music Theory and Counterpoint/Lab (3/1)
    • MUS 310/310L - Music Theory and Analysis/Lab (3/1)
    • Applied Music (Private Instruction) (2 Units)
    • Ensemble (Performance Groups) (4 units)
  • This program is offered as daytime traditional

ADT Guarantee is the completion of BA/BS degree in 68 units.

* The Music, B.A. requires that students choose an emphasis.

Non-traditional Admission

Steps for Re-application

For those students who have applied to FPU’s traditional undergraduate program within the past 2 years and did not attend. Students who applied more than 2 years ago will need to resubmit a full application for admission:

  1. Fill out the re-application form
  2. Submit any missing documents or updated transcripts
Steps for Re-admission

Former FPU students who have not been enrolled in and/or have not submitted a leave of absence form for the previous semester are required to re-apply for admission to FPU:

  1. Fill out the re-admission form
  2. Submit official transcripts from other educational institutions attended during absence from FPU
Steps for Non-matriculated Admission

Students interested in taking classes, usually for personal or professional development, or to transfer to another institution, and is not interested in a degree from FPU. Non-degree students are not eligible for federal, state or institutional aid. Other requirements, class limits and pre-requisites may apply. See the academic catalog for more information:

  1. Fill out the Application for Admission indicating Non Matriculating/Non-Degree status non-matriculation application
  2. Submit proof of high school graduation or equivalent
  3. Some classes may require a pre-requisite course. If required, a college transcript will need to be provided
  4. Personal essays are not required
Auditing a class

Students wishing to audit a class at FPU may apply for audit status. Audit classes are not eligible for financial aid and students will not receive course credit.

  1. Fill out the Application for Admission indicating audit status
  2. Personal essays are not required

Four-Year Graduation Guarantee

Four-year graduation guarantee graphic

Earning a degree in four years allows you to get a head start on achieving your goals of entering the work force or starting graduate school. FPU guarantees graduation within four years in the traditional undergraduate areas of study. We commit to providing the courses, advising, instruction and preparation. If you fulfill your responsibilities and are unable to graduate in four years, you will receive the needed courses the following semester at no cost in tuition or fees.

Incoming requirements

This guarantee is limited to basic graduation requirements of 120 minimum units including general education, upper-level and elective courses sufficient for a single major with no minor.

  • Where options between courses are available, students are not guaranteed their first choice.
  • This guarantee does not apply to “fifth-year” programs (teacher education credential requirements) or minimum units beyond graduation requirements (CPA qualifications, etc.) beyond the basic four-year bachelor’s degree.
  • The guarantee does not apply to transfer students or to FPU's degree completion programs.
  • Students not able to register for the courses needed within four years must complete the free course(s) within two terms of the end of four years (e.g. a summer and fall for those completing four years in the spring; or spring and summer for those completing four years in the fall).
  • The four-year period may be extended for students required to leave the university for up to one year (see the Leave of Absence section) for medical, military or personal reasons.
Student responsibilities
To qualify for the guarantee students must:
  • Meet with your mentor during the fall semester of the freshman year.
  • Finalize a major and begin prerequisite or lower-division major courses by the second semester of the freshman year and keep that major until graduation.
  • Complete at least 32 units per year (average 16 per semester) with passing grades in each course.
  • Maintain a cumulative 2.0 GPA and remain in good standing behaviorally with the university.
  • Meet with the mentor each semester for advising before registration opens and take the courses approved by the adviser/mentor that complete general-education and major requirements, in the appropriate sequence and as they become available.
  • Register within the first week of registration every semester to gain a spot in the classes needed.
  • Notify mentor if unable to register for an approved course so that an alternative plan can be made.
  • Apply for financial aid and submit required documents by appropriate deadlines.
  • Keep student account up-to-date. (Accounts not up-to-date may be placed on hold, preventing registration for courses.)
  • Complete required courses successfully (see Academic Policies section for minimum acceptable grades) without dropping required or approved courses during a semester.

Two-Year Transfer Guarantee for ADT Pathways

FPU guarantees a student with an Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) from the California Community College system, can complete their degree in just two years. If a student meets the qualification requirements, fulfills the responsibilities under the program, and are unable to complete their major in a 2-year period, FPU will assume all additional tuition costs needed to complete their undergraduate degree at FPU.

Incoming requirements
  • 60 transferable units [grades of C- or better] from the California Community College system with a completed ADT (Associate Degree for Transfer)
  • Selected an ADT matched (similar) pathway from FPU’s undergraduate degree programs
  • Have completed the necessary pre-requisites in the discipline specific to intended major
  • Have at least a 2.4 transfer GPA
Student responsibilities
To qualify for the guarantee students must:
  • Enroll in an average of 15- 18 units per semester; not including repeated courses.
  • Remain in good academic standing by maintaining an institutional grade point average of 2.0 or higher
  • Enroll in the required number of consecutive semesters: 3-4 semesters depending on number of units transferred in
  • Make up units for any failed or withdrawn courses during the guarantee period, which may require you to take more than 15-18 units per semester
    • For TUG you may have to enroll in a summer semester.
  • Fulfill all graduation requirements, including core curriculum, major requirements, and upper division course work requirements.
    • Two Year Guarantee: complete enough upper division courses to have at least 40 upper division units by the end of the 4-semester time frame.
  • Take all required courses during the semester recommended by your Academic Advisor.
  • Register for all upcoming courses during the registration period.
  • Any courses from a Community College with “D+” or lower are non-transferable and require additional courses and semesters to graduate.
  • This guarantee may not apply to students starting in a spring or summer semester start (TUG only).
  • This guarantee is limited to basic graduation requirements: 120 minimum units including general education, upper-level and elective courses sufficient for a single major.

Cost & Financial Aid

Tuition & Fees

2023-2024
Total Cost Item Amount
12-18 units (full time) per year $34,960
Student body fee $598
Total Tuition and Fees $35,548
Room $5,018
Board $5,130
Total Tuition, Fees & Board $45,696
Per-Unit Costs Amount
Per unit / Overload $1,248
Summer Session $500
Private Music Instruction $400
2022-2023
Total Cost Item Amount
12-18 units (full time) per year $33,614
Student body fee $574
Total Tuition and Fees $34,188
Room and Board $8,884
Total Tuition, Fees & Board $43,072
Per-Unit Costs Amount
Per unit / Overload $1,218
Summer Session $400
Private Music Instruction $400
2021-2022
Total Cost Item Amount
12-18 units (full time) per year $32,954
Student body fee $498
Total Tuition and Fees $33,452
Room and Board $8,710
Total Tuition, Fees & Board $42,162
Per-Unit Costs Amount
Per unit / Overload $1,177
Summer Session $300
Private Music Instruction $400

Room & Board Rates

Freshman / Sophmore Housing
Module* Fall Spring
Modules $4,313 $4,313
Jost Modules $4,619 $4,619 

* Full Access Meal Plan Included in Cost (Full Access Required)

Junior / Senior Housing
Suites & Houses Fall Spring
Room only $2,068 $2,068
Room-70 Block Meal Plan (included in cost) $2,719 $2,719
Room - 140 Block Meal Plan (included in cost) $3,276 $3,276
Room - Full Access Meal Plan (included in cost) $4,400 $4,400
Jost Hall (4 person), Willow Gardens (4 person) & Kriegbaum Apartments (3 person) Fall Spring
Apartment - Room only $2,694 $2,694
Apartment - 70 Block Meal Plan (included in cost) $3,345 $3,345
Apartment - 140 Block Meal Plan (included in cost) $3,902 $3,902
Apartment - Full Access Meal Plan (included in cost) $5,026 $5,026
Willow Gardens & Jost Hall  Apartments: 3 Person Fall Spring
Apartments - Room only $3,306 $3,306
Apartments - 70 Block Meal Plan (included in cost) $3,958 $3,958
Apartments - 140 Block Meal Plan (included in cost) $4,514 $4,514
Apartments - Full Access Meal Plan (included in cost) $5,639 $5,639
Stand-Alone Meal Plans Fall Spring
70 Block $651 $651
140 Block $1,208 $1,208
Full Access Meal Plan $2,332 $2,332

* Residents living in the Houses or Willow Gardens Apartments may stay over Christmas break at no extra charge providing they are returning for spring semester. Otherwise, residents must check out at the regular fall check-out dates.

Notes about housing
  • For housing placement purposes only, class standing for the fall semester will carry throughout the entire year (both fall and spring semesters).
  • Residents living in the houses or Willow Gardens Apartments may stay over Christmas break at no extra charge providing they are returning for spring semester. Otherwise, residents must check out at the regular fall check-out dates.
  • Meal plan contract dates will follow the traditional semester.

If you have questions that pertain specifically to housing or what housing you qualify for, please contact Residence Life at (559) 453-5696. Or visit our website at studentlife.fresno.edu/living-campus.

Financial Aid

Freshman Scholarships

Based on a student’s academic GPA. Academic GPA’s are calculated by FPU on a weighted, 4.0 scaled and based on core academic classes in grades 10-12. Renewable if a minimum GPA is maintained.

Name GPA Amount
Paragon   Full Tuition
President's 4.00 GPA and above $18,000
Dean's 3.75-3.99 GPA $15,000
Heritage 3.50-3.75 GPA $14,000
Faculty 3.25-3.49 GPA $12,000
Founder's Below a 3.0 GPA $8,000

Transfer Scholarships 

To be considered for a Transfer Academic Scholarship, you must have 12 or more transferable, post-high school units. GPA’s are based on transferable units and calculated by FPU.

Name GPA Amount
Transfer Scholar 3.50 GPA and above $14,000
Transfer Achievement 3.0-3.49 GPA $10,000
Transfer Academic 2.40-2.99 GPA $7,500
Transfer Partnership Below a 2.4 GPA $6,000

Performance-based Scholarships

Name Amount
Athletic $500 to Full Tuition
Music $400 to $10,000
Theatre Arts $500 to $4,000
Art/Design $500 to $4,000

Other FPU Grants and Scholarships

Name Amount
FPU Possibilities Scholarship Full Tuition
Church Match $500 to $1,500
International Scholarship up to $6,000
Mennonite Brethren Award $4,000
Out of State Student Scholarship $4,000
Other Awards $100 to $10,000

Federal and State Grants

Name Amount
Cal Grant A $9,358
Cal Grant B $1,648
Pell Grants $750 to $7,395
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant $1,000

Federal Loans and Work Study

Name Amount
Federal Direct $3,500 to $7,500
PLUS Loan Up to remaining cost
Workstudy Contingent on employment

Private Scholarships

Alumni, parents, friends, businesses and foundations have generously provided a special set of scholarships available to students attending Fresno Pacific.

View Private Scholarships

Photo of Alexandra Green

Alexandra Green

Mathematics

The grants, the academic awards, the transfer scholarship – all of it makes it so much more affordable to attend FPU. I know that school isn’t cheap for anyone, but FPU helped me realize that I could actually come to this school because they were going to help me so much financially.

Net Price Calculator

Now that you’ve seen the financial aid opportunities available to FPU students, we can estimate what your true cost may be to attend Fresno Pacific. Please keep in mind that this is just a computer generated, general estimate and may not capture all aid available, please work with your FPU Student Financial Services advisor to discover your true net price.

Calculate for First-Time FreshmanCalculate for Transfer

Career Opportunities

This degree prepares you to be a skillful musician, effective communicator, creative teacher and responsible servant-leader in the church and the community. Through the study of music theory and history, and the practice of music performance, you will be prepared for lifelong exploration of music through teaching, performance, leading worship or composition.

Career Possibilities

  • Teacher
  • Private studio instructor
  • Church music minister
  • Musical performer
  • Recording industry/businessperson

Career Development Happens Here

The staff in our Career Development and Experiential Learning Center are here to help you prepare to enter the working world. Whether your a freshman or an FPU alum, there are a number of resources and trainings offered to help you find the internship and job you’re looking for.

  • Resume writing classes
  • Career assessments, exploration & planning
  • Job search and networking opportunities
  • and much more

Visit the Career Development Center